Home Security For Home Owners
Jun02

Home Security For Home Owners

Protecting your home and your loved ones from crime does not have to be about spending a fortune on the most expensive home security system you can find. Installing a home security system to improve the safety of your family and property.

The new do-it-yourself home security systems are becoming easier to install and include a lot of security features for a very affordable price.

Many different home security systems are currently available to meet any family’s specific needs and budgets. Some models simply include just the security cameras themselves, while others include an LCD monitor, wireless security cameras, and all wiring to allow the homeowner to have a home security system “in a box.”

In addition to having a reliable and robust home security system, there are several other “best practices” that you should consider when developing a home security plan for your family, and some of these include:

-Plan a mock burglary with your family. This will show the homeowner and family the areas that they need to work on to make their home and property safe and secure.

-Often the criminal element simply strolls through neighborhoods checking for doors that have been left unlocked. Make it a routine to always lock all doors especially when home alone or when running even a short errand.

-Be vigilant in checking windows to ensure that they are not only shut but locked as well. Many homeowners enjoy the spring and fall weather and use this as a time to let fresh air into their homes. Often these windows are left open and unlocked throughout the day and night. This is an open invitation to thieves.

New homeowners should always change the locks on all doors as many duplicate keys could have been made and passed around by tradesmen working in the home (i.e. painters, home theater installers, other contractors, etc.)
When installing a home video surveillance system, try to conceal all the wiring where possible, to make it more difficult for the burglar to know how and where to disconnect the alarm system.

home security lightsInvest in timers for lighting, and even televisions and other audio equipment, so that when no one is at home, you can give would-be burglars the appearance that someone IS at home, thereby reducing your burglary risk.
In certain cases, if not properly installed, wireless home security alarm systems can develop a problem where the sensitivity level of the sensors around the house may cause the alarm to go off frequently for no apparent reason. After this has happened several times, most neighbors will begin to ignore it. Always repair this problem as soon as possible and let neighbors know that it has been fixed and if it goes off again to please report it.

Breaking in with a cardMany common thieves use a technique called “loiding” which is the act of placing a sturdy plastic card, such as a credit card for example, adjacent to the locking tongue of a door, in order to press it and cause door to open.
Simple placement of a dead bolt will fix this issue, since dead bolt locking systems are only accessible to a thief if there is adequate space in between the frame and the door itself, to use a saw or other power tool of some sort.
Often homeowners lose the keys to their home, and if these keys are not found after a reasonable search, all locks should be changed as soon as possible.

Any homeowner using a cleaning service should check all of their available references before giving any person their keys. You may also find value in choosing a cleaning firm that has been verified through the local Better Business Bureau.

Never leave notes or messages for your family members/others on your doors, as this tells the world that no one is at home.

If you’re budget only allows for a fake surveillance camera, be sure and install it in a highly-visible area on the exterior of your home.

Most all of these tips are just common sense. However, with the hectic lives that most individuals lead in today’s world it easy to overlook the simplest things that can cause an increased risk of burglary or vandalism. Make your family aware of the regimen they need to follow to help keep their home safe, and you’ll be glad you did. And if you ever need home door lock services, be sure to call your local locksmith immediately!

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Lock Repair Services And The Professionals Who Provide Them
May29

Lock Repair Services And The Professionals Who Provide Them

You might call for the services of a professional locksmith at any hour. Whilst emergency situations might see you locked out of your residence or even inside it, there are various other instances where you must depend on a locksmith for a number of reasons, particularly lock repair services. For instance, in case, you might like to change the door locks for extra protection or wish to upgrade to a much better security system. An excellent locksmith will help you create the most effective security network for your residence or office. Below are a few top reasons to make use of the services of skilled locksmiths.

1. Certification

The very best locksmiths come with appropriate certifications. This is very important to bear in mind the sensitive character of their job. They’ll be operating inside your residence or office. They’ll be dealing with your security equipment and also have a thorough understanding of how a security system functions.

2. Looking after all your security requirements

The term locksmith is generally related to someone handling traditional locks. Nevertheless, nowadays, lots of hi-tech security systems also are obtainable. Contemporary locksmiths deal with very sensitive security systems, set up the systems, provide suggestions about the best security systems and also carry out an upgrade as well as maintenance of the security systems. Since a security system must be in top-notch condition all the time, you would like to make sure that it is well looked after. Consequently, besides installation, a professional locksmith will also provide services like maintenance to help keep the security systems in a good condition. By doing this you can rest realizing that whether you are at the office, savoring a favorite pastime, or slumbering, the security system is keeping your property as well as office safe and sound.

3. Aiding assess security

In case you’d like to shift to a brand new home or perhaps relocate your business, you would probably wish to employ the services of a specialist locksmith to perform a check of the security equipment. If fixes are essential or the locks ought to be changed you may rely on the services of a locksmith. A professional locksmith provides lots of reasons to employ their services. Especially, if you are relocating to a comparatively unknown location, it is crucial to let a locksmith evaluate the security apparatus at first which is in existence and perform maintenance and lock repair services wherever needed.

4. Get help effortlessly

handing keysLocksmiths can easily be reached. It is possible to contact them whenever you want. This is important bearing in mind that emergencies might appear at any time during the day. Furthermore, locksmiths will be available through the telephone. No matter what the emergency, you can always call the nearest locksmith to get help instantly. Since they have dealt with lots of emergency situations and helped individuals locked in their vehicles or residences or other areas, it is essential to depend on their services during any kind of emergency.

5. Insurance for property

InsuranceOne more reason to allow the top locksmiths fix your locks will be that they have insurance. In case any damage is brought on to your property or home during the process of maintenance, upgrade or perhaps installation, it may be compensated through insurance. Furthermore, it is very important to allow the locksmiths to take care of your security such that your property insurance continues to be watertight. Lots of insurance providers are extremely fussy regarding security systems and, therefore, in case you plan to purchase the very best insurance for your residence or office or any other kind of property it can be a wise decision to employ the expertise of a professional locksmith to obtain the security equipment in a good shape.

All kinds of security, especially at windows or doors or any other entry point must be in top working condition and also provide protection against illegal entry. It is crucial to depend on the services of a locksmith for maintaining all these mechanisms in an excellent condition. Locksmiths usually possess a wide range of knowledge, and can aid to secure various types of installations. You might want to question them regarding the type of installations they perform, prior to employing their services. Several locksmiths work just with safes and identical equipment. Other locksmiths provide security-related fixes for points of entry as well as exit.

It is very crucial to keep the phone number of a locksmith on the contacts list. You might need their assistance anytime for lock replacement or repairs.

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What To Do If Your Key Gets Stuck In The Ignition
May28

What To Do If Your Key Gets Stuck In The Ignition

Have your car keys been stuck in the ignition when in a hurry? I bet it’s very stressful. You can’t leave the keys in the ignition as there is a great risk that someone can steal your car. If this happens to you next time, you shouldn’t worry. Here are some of the things that you can do to remove the stuck key:

Check the position of the key

Many people make the mistake of turning the key too far in the “off position” which gets it stuck. Before you do anything you should ensure that the key is in the correct “off position.” Always remember that if you are able to play the radio the key is in the wrong position. If you have an automatic car, you should ensure that it’s in the “park” position.

Wiggle the steering wheel

If the key is in the correct position and the car is in the park position, you should wiggle the steering wheel back and forth and continue trying to pull softly the key out. When doing this you should ensure that you are gentle in order to avoid breaking the ignition.

Jack up the front of the car

The aim of this is to take the weight of the car off the front wheels.

Use a bobby pin

Bobby PinIf you have tried the above options and none works, you should use a bobby pin to remove the small cap that covers the access port of the ignition lock.

Use ice

The idea behind using ice is to get the key to contract. If the cubes are too large, you should crush them. You should then wrap the bag around the head of the key then wait for about 15 minutes. After this you should try to wiggle the key out.

These are some of the ways of removing a key that has stuck in the ignition. If you have tried all of the options and the key is still stuck you should consider getting the help of a professional. The good side is that there are locksmiths everywhere. For fast response you should find a professional who is within your area.

car ignitionIt’s common to have cars with ignition keys that fail to turn. The experience is usually very frustrating and time consuming and it can delay you in going where you want. Ignition key problems are usually brought about by the model of your car or the situation that you are in. If you are having the problem here are tips on how to fix it:

The first thing that you should do is to check the parking brake light and ensure that it’s on. This is to ensure that you don’t roll away when trying to turn the key. After ensuring that the light is on you should apply some pressure on the key and turn the steering wheel back and forth in order to find a free spot to turn the key.

Many automatic cars will prevent you from turning the key if the selector is not in the park or neutral position; therefore, you should ensure that the selector is in the right position.

If the selector is in the park position and you have tried to turn the key and it can’t, you should now clean and lubricate the lock cylinder. Here you need to spray small amounts of electrical contact cleaner in order to flush away any dirt and grime that might be in the cylinder.

This should be followed by a quick spray of silicone or a drop of graphite. When applying you should be very careful and avoid dripping the lubricant on upholstery or carpet.

You should prevent accumulation of fumes in the car by keeping the car open. To prevent fire you should avoid sparks and open flames near the lock cylinder. Once you have lubricated enough, you should try turning the key again.

If the key refuses to turn, the problem might be in the tumbler; the tumbler might have been stuck in a locked position. To correct the problem you should firmly tap the face of the lock cylinder using a tack hammer. You should tap for at least one minute.

If you do this and the key refuses to turn, you should now check the key for any problems. Here you should place the key on a very flat and solid surface then check if it lays flat or is arched up. If it looks crooked, you should strike it using a block of wood or a similar hard object.

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What Type Of Exit Device Is Right For Your Building?
May25

What Type Of Exit Device Is Right For Your Building?

All properties are required to have the correct emergency exit devices readily available. This is done to ensure that everyone inside the property will be safe at all times. It is a sure proof security measure which plays a very important role in any establishment. Having a visibly clear escape route within the structure is essential for safety purposes. Whenever the need arises, exit devices will help protect people from getting hurt. Depending on the type of building you have, it would need a specific type of Emergency Exit Devices. It is important to choose the most suitable one for your building to maximize its purpose. It’s best to keep in mind that the right choice depends on the exit device’ convenience, reliability, compliance to state regulations and being systematically aligned. Let’s take a look into What Type of Exit Device is Right For Your Building?

WHAT ARE EXIT DEVICES?

The main purpose of exit devices is to promote safety and security within a building. It is strategically located in specific areas of the establishment with the use of an emergency door. It is created to be very easy to use so that in case of emergency situations, people inside the building will be able to exit as quick as possible. Exit devices are also visible even in dark conditions. It is essential not to put any other extra lock or mechanism which might hinder its main purpose or confuse people. Exit bars are usually placed in areas where extra security measures are required. The most common examples of this are places which are vulnerable to loss of valuable products, assets or productive work time. It restricts access coming from the outside. However, a key code is usually required before a person could successfully exit a room or building using it. It is a type of hardware which is a locking device. It consists of a bar placed across which is placed within a particular door. Once the bar is pushed, its door latch responds quickly. This ensures that there will be no delays for exiting during emergencies.

TYPES OF EXIT DEVICES

1. Vertical Cable or Rod

Vertical RodA vertical cable or rod is used to utilize a pair of doors. The latches and rods are usually concealed within the inside part of the doors or surface mounted on the face. The Surface Vertical Rod also known as SVR displays the top and bottom rods starting from the top coming towards the floor. After it’s been pushed, the rods quickly retract to unlock the ends and become released. This allows a person to exit the building safely within just a few seconds. The other type of vertical rod is called Concealed Vertical Rod or CVR. This is usually preferred whenever the owner of the building wants to ensure that the aesthetics looks polished. The CVR do not disrupt the overall door design because it’s hidden from view. It’s a great option to ensure enhanced security while maintaining the door’s beautiful appearance.

2. Rim Device

A Rim Device is one of the most common types of exit devices used in buildings. It is a kind of exit hardware which is popularly known for being cost efficient and reliable. It is usually used for single doors or a pair of doors which have a vertical mullion in between them. In single doors, the strike plate is normally surface mounted on the mullion or the frame. On the other hand, in a pair of doors it is commonly attached to the active door. A double door strike is then mounted onto the inactive door. The rim device is named after the use of a latching mechanism which is taken from the rim locks used in the early 20th century.

3. Mortise Device

Mortise2Similar to the regular mortise lock, the mortise device is mounted at the cavity or edge of a door. It is highly preferred because of its heavy duty properties which ensure that it won’t get easily tampered. It is perfect for buildings which require the highest security measures. Once a person presses the push bar, its tail shaft also called a spindle begins to rotate and releases a latch bolt. This allows the door to swing open quickly which allows people to exit the building swiftly. It requires a locksmith to be installed correctly because of the labor intensive methods attached to it.

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Multiple Vehicles Susceptible To Hacking
May23

Multiple Vehicles Susceptible To Hacking

According to latest research, a hacker can control your steering wheel or suddenly slam on the brakes at 80 miles per hour. Or they can disable your braking system at slow speeds. No matter how hard you step on the brake the car will not stop. In other cases, they can accelerate your car when driving at slow speeds.

In their demonstration, they used a laptop computer while sitting in the automobile. They did not research remote hacking because another group had already done so. However, that group is unwilling to publish their findings. It is rumored they used Bluetooth systems and wireless networks in 2011 to break into a vehicle’s computer system.

Sounds like James Bond, doesn’t it?

Already we are bombarded with notifications about purchasing antivirus software for our computers. Now we should be on the lookout for the same software to protect our automobiles.

This news sets up a theme for World War III. The new mercenary will be the hacker, who is frequently teased and called a nerd, living at home with his parents and sitting in his bedroom orchestrating an attack. They will be able to immobilize an entire nation by controlling vehicles. At worst, they could take the lives of many by causing accidents on highways and city streets.

While this possibility seems far-fetched or too distant in the future, technology and software vulnerabilities make it a reality. If you have On Star, it may be wise to check with them to see if they are taking measures to ensure their system can protect you. They are already set up to control your vehicle through a wireless system.

PorscheOn another front, there are hackers who have figured out how to override the door locks on luxury cars like Bentleys, Porsches, Audis and Lamborghinis. The researchers were planning to present their findings at a technology trade show. Except, Volkswagen obtained a restraining order from the British high court to prohibit the researchers from presenting their findings.

For now, we may safely ride and park our automobiles. Moving forward, we will have to take precautions that have never been considered. On the other hand, it would seem those who drive the old classic cars from the days when computers were not used could be immune to this threat. But it did not just end there. Surprisingly, they found that the number of ways to access private information in the vehicle was parallel to the amount of hacking that could be done online, in a more traditional computer sense of the word, “hack”.

Car hackingFirst off, instead of targeting a single car in particular, these hackers might threaten a large group of cars. By monitoring the location of several most valuable ones that make it sufficing to go through all this risk, hackers are able to sell unlocked cars to robbers and thieves. This means they can secretly track cars using GPS coordinates and VIN numbers and then plan to carjack at their leisure and in terms of demand.

Secondly, once a car has a compromised GPS tracking information, its movements can be easily watched and tracked down. Anything you see in movies may be done, since devices that makes it easy to eavesdrop on in-car conversations are so easy with the advance of portable technology. The hacker could also learn about the car owner’s daily lifestyle and exact routines. Even scarier, they will be able to find where the car owner lives.

You may not know this, but hackers can penetrate virtually any phone and access mass amounts of data. This means they can track your car down simply because you have a cell phone in the car. Later they may be able to use the cell phone as a trigger device that disengages the brakes or something even worse. Yes, we’re on the same page, something like blow your car up. Although only very professional hackers will be able to do this, it’s not entirely too impossible Remote exploitation of cell phone devices.

To be clear, although these fiascos don’t happen all too often, the thought is definitely scary because it could happen in the future. To calm your nerves there are a number of ways you can protect yourself. For example, making sure you have a comprehensive car insurance policy that will insure you against theft, replacing your car, car keys, protecting valuables in your car, and other safety measures. Consider installing alarm devices and systems, and get your car checked regularly.

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Reviewing The Chamberlain Garage Door Sensor
May08

Reviewing The Chamberlain Garage Door Sensor

Garage safety is one of the most important things. Whether it is at home or anywhere else, you always want to make sure that the area is properly locked, especially, if you store other valuable items there. For some people, however, the options can be limited. If you have ever been in such a situation, the Chamberlain Garage Door Sensor could just be what you need. Going by the number of people buying these sensors and the feedback that they give, there is no doubt that it is a worthy addition for your garage. The following are some of the things that you should know about it.
Sources:
AZGaragePros.com
Chamberlain.com
Amazon.com

You can link the sensor with your smartphone

One of the features that make this sensor a must-have accessory for your doors is the fact that you can link it to your smartphone. After that, you can choose to open or close the door from wherever you are. Whether you are at the office and you just renumbered that you forgot to close the door, or you already went to be and there is no way you can wake up to check on the doors, all that you have to do is to use an application on the phone and all operations will be effected. It gives you the convenience and flexibility that you have always been looking for.

You get alerts for every action on the door

Chamberlain SafetyThe Chamberlain Garage Door Sensor sends alerts to your smartphone whenever the door opens or closes. It makes it easy to monitor and control who gets in at every instance. The alerts are a major boost to your security system since they ensure that you act immediately whenever there is an entry that you did not authorize. Gone are the days when you would come home late in the evening and find out that there was an intruder yet you have no idea who they are or what they did.

It is compatible with most garage door openers

Regardless of your garage door opener, this sensor is likely to work. The only doors that might cause problems are those that were made during or before the 1990s due to the features. Since nobody is likely to be using such openers, you have nothing to worry about when you go to buy the sensors. The reason why the 90s doors are an exception is because they most have a standard safety sensor. However, if you can find a technician to replace them for you, you still will enjoy the same security levels as someone who has the most recent types.

The installation

Chamberlain InstallationThe Chamberlain Garage Door Sensor is quite easy to install. It is fast too. This is made possible because it works with the home Wi-Fi through a specialized app. It comes with a variety of digital tools that make it effective. If you have the least knowledge of how such gadgets work, you probably will find it easy to install on your own. However, it is advisable to find a security expert to do it just to make sure that everything works fine. The security of your garage is not something that you can take lightly.

The most notable advantage of this sensor is that apart from making things easy, it helps you to cut on the costs of security. With such a tool, you do not have to be at home all the time or pay someone to usher in anyone you authorize. Even when they come unexpectedly, you can simply open the door with them using your smartphone and go on with your daily schedule. Once they are done, you will lock the door without having to rush back home. In addition to that, they secure your privacy since nobody is there to open and close the garage for you and so, you can use it as storage space even for the items that you love most.

In a nutshell, the Chamberlain Garage Door Sensor is a product that can be recommended to anyone. Whether your garage is large or small, you will find it quite useful. If you are wondering where you can find it, it is always available both from online and offline stores depending on what is convenient for you.

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Hacking Vehicles – Is Smart Keys Really The Way To Go?
Apr29

Hacking Vehicles – Is Smart Keys Really The Way To Go?

In modern vehicles, keys do a lot more than just to unlock and lock doors. Nowadays a signal from an incompatible key-fob may trigger an alarm or even disable the vehicle’s engine altogether. This way, if an individual enters said vehicle without a compatible ignition key, they will not be able to steal the vehicle. For individuals who refuse to go through the hassle of pushing a button each time they wish to open their vehicle’s door, there are several options that are available. Many automotive manufactures are switching the systems they produce to utilize smart keys.
Resources:
AZ Car Keys
wisegeek.org
clonemykey.com

What Are Smart Keys?

Volvo Phone KeySmart keys are essentially a component of a computerized system which uses microchips and sensors to unlock the doors as well as to start a vehicle without the utilization of a key. Smart keys themselves are typically shaped more like plastic cards, as opposed to actual keys. By utilizing a smart key system, all a driver needs to do is to walk up to their car and the vehicle’s door will unlock automatically. Once they person is in the vehicle, all they have to do is to press the ‘Engine Start’ button to get the vehicle moving, without having to physically turn a key. In essence, as long as they have the smart key on them, regardless if it’s in the vehicle or in their purse or pocket, the engine will start. This in itself presents a wide variety of benefits to the consumer such as a higher level of convenience for example. However, the technology that the system consist of presents a variety of dangers that consumers need to be aware of as well. While the benefits of utilizing smart keys and wireless ignition systems are well known, let’s take a look at some of the little known dangers that consumers may not know of.

How Do Smart Keys Work?

In a nutshell, by utilizing radio signals, smart keys send encrypted signals to the vehicles lock and engine components to each other over very short distances.

Hacking

Car hackingOne of the biggest concerns that are associated with smart keys, is the fact that hackers can essentially hack the signal that transpires between the smart key and the wireless ignition system to unlock the vehicle and steal it. A prime example on how this could happen was demonstrated by a research team from the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology. The team conducted a test to target the weakness in common smart key fobs from some of the most well known manufacturers in the industry. During the test, the research team was able to use an antenna to amplify the signals between the smart key and the vehicles unlock mechanism and were able to break into the vehicles. Basically, let’s say that a vehicle would not be unlocked if the smart key was at least within 5 feet of the vehicle, by utilizing two sophisticated piece of hacking devices they were able to amplify that signal to 30 plus feet. What their research demonstrated was that the whole concept of hacking smart keys was practical and feasible.

Could Be Easily Replicated

The research team also noted that the hack could be replicated fairly cheaply, by utilizing devices that cost less than $1,000. They also proclaimed that since all key-less entry systems utilize the same basic design as mentioned before, the same kind of hack that they perpetrated could work on millions of other vehicles as well. However, on the flip side many experts also proclaim that consumers can make it harder for individuals to hack their smart keys by removing the batteries from their key whenever they aren’t using them, as well as to place them inside a case which blocks electronic signals.

However, many security analysts proclaim that while the whole concept of key hacking is not really a big worry right now, it will inevitably become a bigger problem in the future, due to the fact that the thief would be able to get into the vehicle without leaving a sign of forced entry which in itself is very alluring. To make things worse, unless there is a sign of force entry most insurance companies will not cover theft related incidents due to the fact that if they can’t find any evidence of a forced entry, they have no choice but to sum up the incident as just another situation of negligence.

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Protecting Against Garage Door Malfunctions
Apr12

Protecting Against Garage Door Malfunctions

Homeowners often underestimate the importance of garage door service. As a homeowner, you need to service your garage door periodically, just as you need to service your car for its long life. Here is 7 step guide on how to keep you garage door functioning and protect your door from unnecessary break-ins.
Resources:
www.columbusgaragedoorpros.com
homedepot.com

Step 1:

To start with, look for metal tracks. Have a look at the underlying mounting brackets. During garage door service, you might need to tighten the bolts and screws that fit the brackets with the walls. The tracks need to be observed for any occurrences of crimps, dents or flat spots. In case of any spots, they can be made smooth with an hammer, rubber mallet or even a block of scrap wood. In case the tracks are damaged beyond repair, they need to be replaced.

Step 2:

track out of alignmentCheck whether the tracks are properly aligned. Ideally, the horizontal tracks slants slightly down forward. The direction of the tilt should be towards the back of your garage. For roll-up door, the vertical sections of the track should be perpendicular. If you find that the track is not properly aligned, loosen the hardware that holds the mounting brackets. Thereafter, tap the tracks gently in order to position them correctly.

Step 3:

Thirdly clean the garage door tracks with an household cleaner to remove dirt and grease. The rollers need to be cleaned properly. After clean up, thoroughly wipe both the rollers and the trackers to make them dry enough.

Step 4:

lubricate garageLubricate the door tracks and the rollers. Use garage lubricant sprays or even a powdered graphite in case of tracks. For the rollers, use the normal household oil or even a silicone spray, both of them works quite well with garage doors.

Step 5:

If you find loose hardware, tighten them. In case of swing-up doors, have a look whether the spring is well mounted. If not, tighten its screws. In case of roll-up doors, look at the hinges. Tighten loose screws, if any. Take the time to check out the hardware on the door and the track system. In some cases just a loose hinge can cause all the trouble. If there is anything that needs to be tightened, do it. Also, replace hinges on the door if you think they may be the problem. The door opener itself should be checked out as well, since it could be the problem. It may need to have some new batteries placed in it. However, you may need to totally replace the garage door opener as well. If it does need replaced, make sure it’s compatible with your door.

Step 6:

Take some time to look at the springs. Many doors have tension springs on them, and you will want to make sure that these springs are in good shape. Sometimes they just need to have the tension readjusted so that they work just like they should. If you find that the tension springs are in poor condition, it is usually a lot safer to ensure they get replaced. Checking out the pulley system associated with the springs is important as well. You’ll want to make sure it’s in good shape, and if not, then make sure to replace it. If you only have one tension spring right in the middle of the track for your door, and you think it may need to be replaced or fixed, make sure you get a professional to help.

Step 7

If you see that the garage door is not working right, check and see if you can do something to fix it before calling for professional help. A professional garage door company has the tools and experience to test all the critical aspects of your door, including balance and force. A pro can give your garage door a tune-up and fix any damaged or worn components at the same time. Experts recommend having professional service at least once each year, just prior to the extreme seasons of weather. If possible, have your overhead door serviced professionally in both spring and fall. With just a little attention to garage door maintenance, you can rest assured that your door will provide reliable and safe operation all year-long. However, if you do need a new garage door, make sure to have a professional come and install it.

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The Cheapest Solution When Keys Are Locked In The Car
Apr10

The Cheapest Solution When Keys Are Locked In The Car

It’s highly recommended that you ensure that you have your car keys with you before you close your car doors; however, in some cases you can forget and lock the keys inside the car. What should you do in such a scenario? This is the cheapest solution when keys are locked in the car that should put into use:
Resources:
Aurora Locksmith
homedepot.com
walmart.com

Use a shoelace

Shoestring MethodYou should use the shoelace to open the door. You should start by tying a slipknot in the middle of the shoelace and work the string into the door. You should then pull the loop tight around the lock and pull up the lock to unlock the door. When you unlock the door you will be able to access your keys.

Classic wire hanger trick

Hanger trickThis trick works on both vertical and horizontal locks. While it’s very effective in these locks, it usually doesn’t work with newer or luxury vehicles. This is because these cars have many electrical wires that can be easily damaged in the process.

If your car is old you should get a hanger and bend it so that it’s straight and looks like a fishing pole with a hook on the end. You should then slide the hanger in between the window and the weather stripping while taking care not to scratch your car. You should move the hanger until you are able to hook the door mechanism. When you find the pin for the door mechanism you should hook it and pull it up.

Pick the lock

Here you need to find a safety or straight pin and then lubricate the lock. Once the lock is fully lubricated you should insert the pin into the key hole and wiggle it around until you hear the lock open. If you can’t find a safety pin you should use a straightened paper clip.

Find access through the trunk

If you have locked your keys inside the car and your trunk is still open you should try to access the keys by crawling through the trunk. When you open the trunk you should find the emergency cord. The cord usually opens the trunk to the inside of the car. Once open you should crawl into the inside of the car.

These are some of the tricks that you can use to retrieve a key that has been locked inside a car. If you are unable to retrieve the key you should highly consider hiring the services of a professional locksmith. To avoid similar incidents in the future it’s wise that you have a spare key.

If you try all these tricks without success, what do you do now? Fortunately, you don’t need to get upset and frustrated any more if you find yourself in this position. Just take advantage of the auto locksmith services available to you. They’ll get you out of this predicament in no time, and they often provide 24 hour services.

Auto locksmith services

They are the experts who have the specialized computer software and advanced tools needed to take care of all your auto lock problems. Licensed auto locksmiths are the most reliable and offer the following 3 services for your assistance:

  1. Replacing stolen keys – Locksmiths are equipped to replace stolen vehicle keys without the need to change the vehicle’s lock. If your car keys get stolen the locksmith erases your stolen keys from ECU, the locks are then re-coded with new combinations and replaced keys are provided to you. This reduces the risk of your vehicle being stolen, no matter who has your old keys!
  2. Replacing lost keys – Locksmiths have blank keys that are easily cut by an advanced key cutting machine. This task can be carried out even when you are at the roadside. Computer software is then employed to make sure that the newly manufactured key perfectly fits the vehicle lock. Once the key is re-manufactured, it is coded with the ignition lock or vehicle door. Don’t forget, if your car has an immobilizer system only a programmed key will open your car. The newly manufactured key is then reprogrammed according to the ECU of your vehicle.
  3. Vehicle entry – If you are stuck outside with your car keys locked inside, simply give a call to the expert locksmiths who will soon gain entry into your vehicle without causing any damage. No matter if your keys have to be retrieved from any car model, ignitions skilled locksmiths know what kind of techniques work best which car models.

Spare keys for smart people

If you want to make sure you don’t get caught in any of these predicaments you can act smart and have spare vehicle keys made in advance. Latest computerized techniques, utilized by expert auto locksmiths, can copy the keys of most vehicles. This not only reduces any hassle that you might have to face due to stolen or lost keys but is also a very cost-effective and time saving practice.

Do you have your area’s auto locksmith expert’s number?

These experts are available both for those in the motor trade and the general public. The emergency help made available by these experts is usually highly commendable. So, make sure that you always have the number of the auto locksmith experts of your area in order to avoid any unnecessary inconvenience and frustration. Now, you can enjoy care-free motoring without worrying about your keys.

 

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Types Of File Cabinet Locks
Mar05

Types Of File Cabinet Locks

Do you need a new lock for a file cabinet? Is it highly classified information that you need to protect in a business setting, or do you simply want to keep a few paper files locked up in the home? Depending on the answer to these, and other questions you have, customers are going to have different options to consider when choosing from the different types of file cabinet locks. These are a few lock systems to consider for file cabinet systems at home or in a commercial office. Big thanks to southglennlocksmith.com for all the useful info.

Tubular cylinder lock –

These typically fit the hole in the cabinet system most offices use. The lock is a long cylindrical shape which is opened using a round key. The bar inside the system latches to a portion of the cabinet’s interior, which provides the security, and keeps the system locked in place when not in use.

Lock bar –

Cabinet lock barA second option to consider when choosing locks for your filing cabinet is the lock bar system. These are typically installed to the cabinet’s exterior and are opened/closed using a traditional padlock for security. A great benefit with these systems is that it can replace a central system, allowing you to place one on each of the doors on your cabinet. If there are several drawers, this allows you to have a dedicated lock/key system for each of the drawers.

Electric lock systems –

Probably the most secure option, and these are typically used in commercial settings where highly classified information needs to remain classified. A code is used to open the locking mechanism in these lock systems. Another benefit is that you can set various codes, for different individuals in the office who should have access to the system. Further, many systems will replace the code lock each time the cabinet is opened/closed, which means no two codes are going to be alike.

Padlock –

PAdlock3A simple padlock can be placed on the exterior of your file cabinet if you have an older system, or something which simply has a circular edge or finish. You can set a code with padlocks or you can purchase a traditional key padlock system to use on your filing cabinet. Depending on the level of security sought, there are several different styles of padlocks from which you can choose, providing higher or lower level security, to protect the files which are contained in the filing cabinet you plan on placing the padlock on.

Again, the decision to invest in something more sophisticated such as an electronic lock system is one which most business owners are going to choose, versus a homeowner who requires low level security. Regardless of the level of security or type of documents you need to secure, and depending on the type of system you have in place, there is more than one option available to consider when choosing a new lock system. These are among the most popular options to consider, regardless of whether you are placing the locks on a home or a commercial filing cabinet system which is in place.

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